Ponytail Palm yellow leaves

Old outer leaves gradually yellow and dry while the center makes new leaves. Yellowing through newer foliage or a soft swollen base calls for checking the root ball.

Check before watering

If the root ball is dry through and the swollen base is firm, water evenly and drain. If the mix is wet, remove runoff and wait for it to dry. Give bright light, introducing direct sun gradually if the plant has been in shade. Inspect roots if decline continues over wet mix.

Clip fully dry old leaves near their attachment without pulling at the crown. Keep green central growth. Wet-soft tissue in the base needs the soft-base check, not extra water.